Step 1: Buy boxesBuy new boxes from a moving supply store. Discarded produce boxes may be cheaper, but they'll make your possessions smell like produce.

Step 2: Reinforce boxesReinforce the bottoms and corners of your boxes with good duct tape.

Step 3: Cushion with bubble wrapUsing bubble wrap, cover the insides of any box that will contain fragile items. Once the box is packed, fill the remaining space with bubble wrap or wadded-up newspaper. *Tip: Pack no more than 50 pounds per box. Place heavier items at the bottom of boxes, and distribute them among the cartons to lighten each load.

Step 4: Pack china carefullyPack china by stacking it, alternating plates and layers of newspaper. Cover the final stack entirely in bubble wrap. *Tip: Consider investing in ink-free packing paper. Yes, old newspaper is cheaper, but you'll pay in the long run when you're scrubbing newsprint off everything.

Step 6: Pack booksPlace hardcover books on their side, alternating bindings, and save paperbacks to fill in nooks and crannies in other cartons. *Tip: Only pack boxes with hardcover books halfway or their weight may rip the box.